I just marked the 15th year since my Dad passed away at age 94.  Thoughts?  Fifteen have years flown by, but the memories of my beloved father are as strong as ever. It will always feel as if he’s just left the room. His memory always brings a smile to my face, which is about as good as it gets when it comes to being remembered! He was a natural comedian with a gift for delivering a one -liner that was unsurpassable.

My Dad even managed to leave this world smiling.

About a week before he died, many of us close to him gathered around his bed, in what looked like the beginning of a classic death scene from a Hollywood movie.  The head nurse from the retirement home joined our somber group. Her attitude differed from the rest of us, she was all about taking care of business and taking control.  My dad was quietly laying in his bed, eyes closed, unable to say much.

“Nathan,” said the nurse, talking a little too loudly. ” All the people who love you are here to see you.”  She then proceeded to name all of us who had gathered around, “your daughter, your nephew, your niece, your son-in-law, etc.etc. ” It was as if she thought he had no idea who was present.  She then asked him, “Is there anyone else you’d like to see now? “

There was a brief pause.  None of us knew whether my Dad would respond or not.

Without missing a beat, my father said clearly, “Yes.”  Another pause. We all waited for his answer.  It came quickly.

“Marilyn Monroe!”